Tachystola hemisema
Common NameTachystola hemisema
Scientific NameTachystola hemisema
FamilyOecophoridae
SubfamilyOecophorinae
Wingspan (mm)12
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsreddish-brown, dark brown
HabitatForests, woodlands, gardens, areas with decaying vegetation
Geographic RangeAustralia, New Zealand (introduced)
Host Plantsdecaying plant matter, detritus, fungi, lichen
Flight PeriodYear-round in warmer climates, typically spring to autumn
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are detritivores, feeding on decaying organic material such as leaf litter or fungi. Pupation occurs within a silken cocoon.
Identification TipsKey features include its small size, the reddish-brown forewings, and the distinctive dark, angled band near the tornus, often accompanied by scattered dark spots.
Description
A small moth with reddish-brown forewings, characterized by a prominent dark brown, somewhat angled band or patch near the outer margin and several smaller dark spots scattered across the wing.
